West Sussex County Council to push for smartphone ban in primary schools
Authorities claim removing phones would protect pupils’ well-being
West Sussex County Council plans to urge the government to ban smartphones in all primary schools, following a council debate on 12th December 2025.
The topic was raised by John Dabell (Conservative, East Grinstead Meridian) and supported by Donna Johnson (Green & Independent Alliance, Selsey), who described the proposal as a ‘practical, evidence-based step’ aimed at safeguarding children’s well-being.
She said: “Mobile-free environments help reduce bullying and social pressure. Much of the bullying young children experience today occurs digitally, through messaging, group chats and social media features that many young children access far earlier than they are emotionally equipped to handle."
She explained that banning smartphones during school hours would prevent harm and lessen social pressure related to technology trends, allowing children to focus on school as a safe and supportive space.
Concerns about social media impact raised earlier this year
The council has previously debated concerns regarding the influence of social media on children. In March, discussions were prompted by Netflix’s Adolescence drama and Sir Gareth Southgate’s Dimbleby Lecture, where he emphasised the need for stronger role models for boys and young men.
Jacquie Russell, cabinet member for children, young people & learning, and Bob Lanzer, cabinet member for public health & wellbeing, will now write to Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson MP, asking her to reconsider the government's stance on making schools phone-free zones.
Evidence highlights smartphone use among children
Russell shared findings from a health check conducted last spring, revealing half of the children surveyed owned a smartphone capable of internet access.
Among 8 to 11-year-olds, 53% of boys and 23% of girls reported spending two to three hours gaming online daily. Additionally, 23% of boys and 7% of girls admitted gaming for over four hours each day.
In secondary schools, figures indicate growing concerns about body image, with 32 per cent of boys and 61 per cent of girls reporting they struggle with this ‘at least sometimes.’
In October 2024, Children’s Minister Josh MacAllister MP initially introduced a Private Members’ Bill targeting smartphones in schools, raising the internet adulthood age from 13 to 16, and giving Ofcom enhanced powers to protect children from addictive apps. This Bill was withdrawn in September.